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Contractual Tactical Data Link Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canvas

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL · On-site

$106K - $127K/yr

Key Responsibilities * Operate and monitor real tactical hardware (data link radios, GPS/INS units, RF frontends) within HITL simulation environments. * Integrate hardware with ...

Canvas

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL · On-site

$106K - $127K/yr

Operate and monitor real tactical hardware (data link radios, GPS/INS units, RF front-ends) within HITL simulation environments. * Integrate hardware with Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC ...

Astrion

Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior

FL · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

Overview Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior LOCATION: Eglin AFB, FL JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Secret CERTIFICATION: N/A TRAVEL: 35% CONUS / OCONUS Astrion has an exciting opportunity ...

Future Technologies, Inc.

Data Link Analyst

Moorestown, NJ · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Conduct advanced tactical data link engineering, analysis and simulation systems operations. * Support all aspects of testing Naval tactical systems and tactical data link (TDL) capabilities of C4ISR ...

Prevailance

Tactical Data Link SME

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

This role provides direct support to pre-deployment training, Multi-Tactical Data Link ( MTDL ) planning, network operations, and Common Operational Picture ( COP ) / Common Tactical Picture ( CTP ...

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Contractual Tactical Data Link information

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$34K

$70.8K

$135.5K

How much do contractual tactical data link jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual tactical data link in the United States is $70,839.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $81,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Contractual Tactical Data Link specialist?

A Contractual Tactical Data Link specialist is a professional who manages, implements, and maintains tactical data link systems—such as Link 16 or Link 11—on a contractual basis, often for military or defense organizations. Their work ensures secure and efficient communication between different military platforms, such as ships, aircraft, and ground units. These specialists are typically responsible for integrating, troubleshooting, and optimizing data link networks, as well as training personnel on their operation. Contractual roles mean they are hired for specific projects or time periods rather than as permanent staff. They play a crucial role in enabling real-time information sharing and situational awareness on the battlefield.

What is the difference between Contractual Tactical Data Link vs Tactical Data Analyst?

AspectContractual Tactical Data LinkTactical Data Analyst
CredentialsSecurity clearance, technical certificationsData analysis certifications, military or defense experience
Work EnvironmentMilitary, defense contractors, secure facilitiesMilitary operations centers, defense agencies, field environments
Employer & IndustryDefense agencies, military contractorsMilitary units, defense industry, government agencies

Contractual Tactical Data Link specialists focus on managing secure communication systems for military operations, ensuring data transfer between platforms. Tactical Data Analysts interpret and analyze data to support decision-making in combat scenarios. While both roles serve the defense sector, the former emphasizes system management, and the latter emphasizes data analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contractual Tactical Data Link specialist?

To thrive as a Contractual Tactical Data Link Specialist, you need a strong foundation in military communications, data link protocols (such as Link 16), and relevant security clearances, typically supported by technical or military training. Familiarity with tactical data link systems, network management tools, and certification in cybersecurity or defense communication systems is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure secure, reliable, and accurate information exchange essential for mission-critical operations and joint-force coordination.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in Contractual Tactical Data Link roles, and how can they overcome them?

Professionals in Contractual Tactical Data Link roles often face challenges such as coordinating between multiple military branches, ensuring secure and reliable data transmission, and adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and protocols. Overcoming these hurdles requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to stay updated through ongoing training. Regular collaboration with engineers, operators, and program managers is essential for troubleshooting issues and maintaining system interoperability.
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Contractual Tactical Data Link jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contractual Tactical Data Link job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,839 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Canvas

Niceville, FL • On-site

$106K - $127K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate and monitor real tactical hardware (data link radios, GPS/INS units, RF frontends) within HITL simulation environments.
  • Integrate hardware with LiveVirtualConstructive (LVC) architectures, enabling real equipment to interact with virtual platforms.
  • Configure, initialize, and monitor LVCintegrated TDL networks during simulation test events.
  • Troubleshoot hardware/software interfaces, timing, synchronization.
  • Operate and analyze Link16 and similar or related tactical data link systems.
  • Research, develop and modernize existing TDL HITL emulators to ensure continued relevance and interoperability with emerging, modernized TDLenabled weapon systems and UAS platforms
  • Build, decode, and evaluate TDL messages and network architectures.
  • Support gateway operations, network initialization, and realtime monitoring during events.
  • Present technical findings and recommend improvements to system designs.
  • Assess proposals, requirements, and system documentation for technical feasibility and proper allocation of navigation/TSPI requirements.
  • Support NAVWARrelated testing, jamming threat assessments, and degradedenvironment navigation evaluations.

Required Qualifications

  • Working knowledge of Link16 and other tactical data link systems.
  • Proficiency with Wireshark and networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, HTTP).
  • Strong understanding of RF transceiver design, propagation modeling, and link budgets.
  • Experience with oscilloscopes, spectrum/network analyzers, logic analyzers, and signal generators.
  • Familiarity with COMSEC handling and Simple Key Loaders (SKL).
  • Experience with MATLAB, or similar modeling/simulation tools.

Desired Additional Experience

  • Familiarity with GNSS/INS systems, Alt-Nav, Kalman filtering, and navigation algorithms.
  • Knowledge of anti-jam techniques, NAVWAR considerations, and jamming threat environments.
  • Familiarity with C++ coding for algorithm development, simulation integration, or hardwareinterface support.

Education / Experience / Clearance Requirements

  • Master's degree in relevant field.
  • 10+ years' experience.
  • Top Secret clearance

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